In the wake of a tragic mid-air collision involving an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport, former President Donald Trump has voiced his opinion that the disaster might have been avoidable.
The incident, which occurred late Wednesday, has left the nation grappling with questions about aviation safety and the circumstances leading to such a catastrophic event.
"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time," Trump stated on Truth Social early Thursday morning. He further questioned the actions of the helicopter and the control tower, noting, "It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didnt the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didnt the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!" According to Fox News, the Federal Aviation Administration reported that the collision involved a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, which had departed from Wichita, Kansas. The crash occurred as the jet was approaching Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport around 9 p.m. local time.
The American Airlines flight carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the Black Hawk helicopter had three Army soldiers on board. Among those on the plane were "several members" of U.S. Figure Skating, including athletes, coaches, and family members who had recently attended the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita. The number of injuries and fatalities remains unconfirmed as investigations continue.
Weather conditions at the time of the crash were reported as clear, with visibility extending to 10 miles and winds from the northwest at 16 mph, gusting to 26 mph. The temperature was recorded at 50 degrees. Despite these seemingly favorable conditions, the collision resulted in the wreckage of the plane being partially submerged in the frigid Potomac River, where nearly 300 first responders have been conducting search and rescue operations. The water temperature was a chilling 37 degrees on Wednesday night, diminishing hopes of finding survivors.
Vice President JD Vance addressed the public via social media, urging prayers for those affected by the collision. "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best," he expressed.
In response to the tragedy, the National Transportation Safety Board, FAA, and the U.S. Army have initiated investigations to determine the cause of the collision. Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with other officials, is scheduled to hold a press conference at 7:30 a.m. ET Thursday at Reagan National Airport. "Tonight, as our first responders continue their efforts, we are sending our love and prayers to the families, loved ones, and communities who are experiencing loss during this terrible tragedy," Bowser conveyed on X.
The airport remains closed until 11 a.m. this morning as authorities continue to address the aftermath of the collision. "What a terrible night this has been," Trump remarked, adding, "God bless you all!"
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